Extended instruction set for packet processing applications

摘要

A software program extension for a dynamic multi-streaming processor is disclosed. The extension comprising an instruction set enabling coordinated interaction between a packet management component and a core processing component of the processor. The software program comprises, a portion thereof for managing packet uploads and downloads into and out of memory, a portion thereof for managing specific memory allocations and de-allocations associated with enqueueing and dequeuing data packets, a portion thereof for managing the use of multiple contexts dedicated to the processing of a single data packet; and a portion thereof for managing selection and utilization of arithmetic and other context memory functions associated with data packet processing. The extension complements standard data packet processing program architecture for specific use for processors having a packet management unit that functions independently from a streaming processor unit.